Three Ways a Pituitary Tumor Causes Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the tumor's size and whether it makes a hormone. They generally fall into three groups: pressure on nearby structures, too much of a hormone, and too little of a hormone.
1. Pressure on Nearby Structures
A tumor pressing upward can affect the optic nerves and cause vision loss — classically a loss of side vision that can develop so gradually it goes unnoticed. Headaches are common, and larger tumors can cause double vision.
2. Too Much of a Hormone
Depending on the tumor, hormone excess can cause prolactin-related changes (irregular periods, milk production, low sex drive), acromegaly (enlarging hands, feet, and facial features), or Cushing disease (weight gain, high blood pressure, easy bruising). See our hormonal symptoms page.
3. Too Little of a Hormone
A large tumor can crowd out the normal gland and cause hormone shortages — fatigue, low sex drive, cold intolerance, low blood pressure, or excessive thirst and urination.
When to Seek Care Urgently
A sudden, severe headache with vision change can signal pituitary apoplexy, a medical emergency — seek immediate care.Become our Patient. Send us your MRI and recent bloodwork and our team will review your case. Call 813-333-1186 or fax records to 844-691-5928.